Plainfield physician says drink to your health

It’s no secret that water is vitally important to your life. It’s everywhere we turn – in nature, at home and in your own body. Since water composes more than two-thirds of your weight, it makes sense that staying hydrated is important to your health.

You may have heard the “8x8” rule, which encourages you to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. While that’s a good minimum, The Institute of Medicine advises men to drink about 13 cups (3 liters) a day and women about 9 cups (2.2 liters).

“Thirst sensation decreases with age, so it is important to pay attention to your hydration. Water is the best choice because it quenches your thirst without adding any calories,” says Laura Setlur, MD, a board certified internal medicine physician with Edward Medical Group (EMG) on the Edward Plainfield campus. “Water is vital for all organ systems in the body to function well.”

Joints. Water is needed to take care of all your joints and sensitive tissues. It lubricates and cushions your joints, helping prevent arthritis and delaying wear and tear.

Digestive system. Water is the basis of saliva, which aids in digestion and helps you fight infection. In the digestive tract, water helps the body deliver and absorb nutrients you need and then moves waste out of your body. Without enough water, organs can’t function correctly. For example, a dehydrated colon will produce hard stool, which may result in bloating and constipation.

Body temperature. Without water, your body wouldn’t be able to regulate its temperature and your systems would go haywire. Perspiration, largely composed of water, allows your body to cool down efficiently.

Skin. The easiest way to improve the appearance and health of your body’s biggest organ is to drink more water. Water hydrates your skin cells, reduces blotchiness and flushes out toxins like bad bacteria, chemicals and other environmental pollutants — making your skin soft and more resistant to wrinkles.

Weight loss. A combination of diet and exercise is a great way to lose weight, but don’t forget to add water. Keep a water bottle at your work desk, and get in the habit of drinking from it. You’ll cut hundreds of calories each day if you guzzle water instead of high-sugar, high-calorie drinks. Soda, for example, is a diuretic, which can cause frequent urination, loss of electrolytes and even dehydration.

To break up the monotony and incorporate some flavor, eat soups, salads, fruits and vegetables – foods that are made up of over 50 percent water and try sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice.

When properly hydrated, your urine should be colorless or light yellow. If it’s closer to orange, you may need to up your water intake.

There’s no doubt about it — drinking water will pay off for your long-term health, especially when supplemented with a nutritious diet. Meet with your healthcare provider to talk more about your eating and drinking habits. By making sure you get the water and nutrients you need, you’ll help ensure a healthy present and future for your body.

Dr. Setlur is accepting new patients at her EMG office on the Edward Plainfield campus, 24600 W. 127th St., Building B, Suite 100. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (815) 731-9000. For more information about EMG, visit www.EEHealth.org/EMG.